Hi, I’m Courtland Powers-Gunnells, a social impact executive leader, fundraiser, and speaker with over a decade of experience transforming nonprofits into thriving organizations. Throughout my 10+ years as a professional fundraiser, I’ve raised over $5 million, previously managed pipelines for nonprofit clients totaling 34 million, as well as secured grants for them totaling 1.25 million while serving as a fundraising strategy consultant. I’ve supported the development of over two dozen fundraisers, managed six- and seven-figure revenue budgets, and partnered with boards to drive lasting impact. I didn’t build my career primarily working for well-resourced organizations that had a lot to work with from the jump—I spent some good years at small to mid-sized organizations where I had to be scrappy and resourceful. When I say I’m the right person to get you from surviving to thriving in fundraising as an Nonprofit Executive Leader, this is where I’m coming from!

With a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, an MBA in Organizational Development, and a Master of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership, I specialize in building systems that empower nonprofits to achieve long-term sustainability. My contributions to the sector and fundraising profession has been recognized by national organizations like the Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy (WOC), and National Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN).

Along my career journey, I realized that numbers and strategy were only part of the story for nonprofit organizational and fundraising success. True impact comes from aligning vision, people and systems to create a healthy ethos-or- culture of philanthropy.

This became very clear to me when I stepped into the role of interim executive director for an organization that was struggling to stay afloat. On my first day, I sat in an office piled high with bank statements, receipts, and unanswered questions. The staff and board were eager to get organized, grow and diversify revenue, but what they needed to manage and sustain that growth were missing. The problem wasn’t just financial…it was cultural. The board wasn’t aligned, roles weren’t clear, and decision-making lacked structure. I realized that they didn’t just need dollars; they needed clarity, accountability, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Since this interim experience, I have worked as an executive-level fundraiser serving as a “right-hand” to numerous Executive Directors and CEOs. I’ve learned a lot over all these years being a fundraising practitioner, coaching other fundraisers—and many times— creating a safe space for my Executive Directors to be vulnerable about their pain points regarding fundraising.

These experiences shaped my mission. Executive Directors/CEOs many times don’t have the support to create a healthy culture of philanthropy for organizations and are often expected to carry the weight of fundraising alone—which can lead to burnout or creating (the intended or unintended) toxic work environments. The lack of preparation for professionals seeking the role of executive leadership contributes to this issue as well. Individuals seeking to serve in this capacity (particularly those who are not fundraisers) need coaching so they’re set up for success. This brings me to my next priority area—the high turnover of fundraisers working within these organizations. The truth is, sustainable funding isn’t a solo act. It’s about building systems that outlast individuals, fostering a culture of shared responsibility, and empowering leaders with the tools they need to succeed so they can work together to create sustainable revenue generation.

I believe in demystifying fundraising and helping executive directors move from surviving to thriving. This work isn’t just about dollars in the door; it’s about creating a legacy of impact. 

Today, I partner with nonprofit executive leaders to alleviate the overwhelming pressure of revenue generation. I work to transform how organizations approach fundraising and organizational culture surrounding philanthropy. My expertise includes delivering clarity, objectivity, and sustainable systems tailored to your unique challenges. From conducting feasibility assessments to equipping leaders with actionable strategies and optimizing fundraising teams, I empower nonprofits to build adaptive, high-performing goals around revenue generation.

When nonprofit leaders are empowered, communities thrive. When boards and staff are aligned, the impossible becomes possible. And when systems are strong, funding follows. Let’s create pathways for safe spaces and vulnerability, sustainable growth, financial health, and long-term impact for your organization. Click below to learn more about how I can partner with you.